How Many Dogs Can Someone Legally Have in Colorado?

Colorado is considered to be one of the most dog-friendly states in the country. Whether we're bringing them along with us to breweries or on outdoor adventures, canine companions truly are a part of our families.

But as far as dogs go, is there a limit regarding how many a person or household can legally own in the Centennial State?

Paws-itive news for dog lovers In Colorado - there aren't any statewide dog ownership laws in place.

Rather, the limits are dictated by local zoning laws depending on the city or county. According to the insurance company, Jerry, most Colorado cities and counties limit each household to four dogs over the age of four months old. However, some counties, such as Arapahoe County, limit most of their residential areas to a maximum of three pooches per person. On the flip side, other communities, like the small town of Monument, allow up to six dogs per household.

Fort Collins laws state that there is no legal limit on the number of domestic animals a person can own, so long as they are properly cared for. City law also notes that dogs must be licensed and vaccinated if they are not confined to a yard. The same code concerning domestic pet ownership is in place for the city of Loveland.

The rules regarding dog ownership are a bit different in Weld County. According to the Weld County Sheriff's Office, there are zoning ordinances that reflect the number of animal units allowed in a particular zoned area of the county. Those living in Zone A (agriculture) may have up to four dogs on a property between 1 and 10 acres in size, and no more than eight dogs on a property of 10 acres or more. Having more canines than that requires a special use permit for kenneling practices.

Although there are no official statutes in Colorado, a maximum amount of dogs allowed in a residence could be put in place by a neighborhood's specific homeowners' association regulations or could also be set by a landlord who is renting a property out to others.